Deuteronomy 31: Lessons for Spirit-Led Succession and Continuity

Introduction. Deuteronomy Chapter 31 marks a return to the narrative of Deuteronomy that ended in chapters 3 and 4. From Chapters 5 through 30, Moses gave the Ten Commandments, the statutes that interpret them, the blessings and curses that come from following or rejecting the Law, and the summary of God’s teachings regarding the First Covenant. Here, Moses returns to his discussion in Chapter 3 regarding Joshua’s succession to lead God’s people. From Moses’ final exhortations, God reveals seven lessons for ensuring the successful succession of Spirit-led leaders and the continuity of God’s teachings from generation to generation.

First, God must be the leader of every organization. No leader is indispensable. Every leader must plan for succession by allowing the Spirit to select a godly successor. Second, continuity requires that leaders continually exhort the people to put their trust in God. If not, the people will quickly resort to fear and trust in the things of the world. Third, another part of continuity requires that Spirit-led leaders build up other leaders with encouragement. Fourth, to ensure the continuity of God’s teachings, He requires that Law be publically taught at least once every seven years. Fifth, also to ensure continuity, the people must be taught to fear the consequences of sin. Sixth, continuity further requires that leaders teach the people to have faith in both the power and the truth of His Word. Finally, because God’s people are like sheep and are easily led astray, Spirit-led leaders must continually guide the people to stay on the path of righteousness. If not, the continuity of God’s teachings will be lost, and the people will regress into sin.

1. Always Let God Lead. Dt. 31:1-3, 23.

2. Encourage God’s People to Put Their Trust in Him. Dt. 31:4-6.

Place your trust in God1

3. Encourage God’s Leaders to Put Their Trust in Him. Dt. 31:7-8.

4. Ensure the Public Teaching of God’s Word at Least Once Every Seven Years. Dt. 31:9-13.

5. Teach the People to Fear the Consequences of Sin. Dt. 31:14-21.

6. Teach the People to Have Faith in God’s Word. Dt. 31:22, 24-26.

7. Teach the Leaders to Lead the People Down the Path of Righteousness. Dt. 31:27-30.